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And Everton fan groups are asking supporters to join them in applause and chanting on four minutes – and at several points during the game - to mark poignant moments in Howard’s Everton career.

Fan site NSNO has published a story encouraging supporters to show their appreciation for Howard on 32 minutes, representing his age when he first took the reins at the Blues, on 67 minutes to mark the year he first signed for the club and 84 minutes to celebrate the year Howard won his first trophy - the FA Cup when they beat Watford 2-0 at Wembley - as Everton manager.

A member of the famous Holy Trinity midfield, alongside Alan Ball and Colin Harvey, Howard remains one of the finest players to have ever donned the royal blue jersey.

As well as a hugely talented midfielder – and title winner in 1970 – he went on to become the most successful manager in the club’s history, leading a glorious period of success during the 1980s which included winning league titles in 1984-85 and 1986-87, the FA Cup in 1984 with finals in 1985 and 1986, and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1985.

Fan groups are also encouraging supporters to add colour to Goodison Park and make noise for the Blues Giant throughout the game in appreciation of his achievements with the Toffees.

In advance of kick-off, clips of Howard’s classic managerial and playing moments will be shown on the stadium screens, as well as devoting a page of the matchday programme to pay tribute to him.